Comments by the NSW Ageing Minister, Andrew Constance, suggest pensioners in public housing need to brace for the clean energy supplement, aka carbon tax compo, being included in public housing rent calculations. Mr Constance and his Department Director General have said that the Government reserves its decision but as costs go up, rents will have to go up otherwise maintenance will suffer.

“The Clean Energy Supplement is aimed at reducing the impact of the carbon tax on Australia’s most vulnerable. Those living in public housing are already struggling to pay for basic goods and services and need this modest boost to their income to keep up with rising living costs.

“Pension supplements have always been quarantined from public and community housing rent calculations as they are paid for a specific purpose. It is very concerning that the NSW Government seems to be going against this tradition, effectively robbing those in public housing from their entitlement.

“It’s a case of the Federal Government giving people a hand with the rising cost of living and the NSW Government immediately snatching it away”, said Ms Christie.

Visoncare

“CPSA is appalled that the Visioncare Spectacle Program that provides the state’s poorest with glasses is not having its funding increased, despite being suspended for four months last February due to running over budget.

“This is one of the cheapest and most efficient programs, with strict means testing. CPSA is asking if the Government plans on suspending the program for four months every year, to the detriment of the most vulnerable”, said Ms Christie.

CPSA represents pensioners of all ages, superannuants and low-income retirees. CPSA has 137 Branches and Affiliated Organisations, with a combined membership of 30,000 people.

Media Contact: Amelia Christie, Research/Policy Officer
Mobile: 0410 612 182